1Recognizing and congratulating the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority,
2Inc., on the occasion of its 100th anniversary.

3WHEREAS, Established in 1913 at Howard University by 22
4distinguished women, the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., is
5the largest African-American women's organization in the United
6States; and

7WHEREAS, The 22 founders immediately began fulfilling their
8commitment to social and political action by joining the Women's
9Suffrage March on Washington, DC, thereby exhibiting their
10exceptional fortitude and an unwavering commitment to affect
11change; and

12WHEREAS, Delta Sigma Theta's national programming is built on
13a five-point programmatic thrust of economic development,
14educational development, international awareness and
15involvement, physical and mental health and political awareness

1and involvement; and

2WHEREAS, In the past 100 years, this organization's 
3prestigious reputation has resulted in significant growth in its 
4membership to include more than 900 chapters world wide and more 
5than 250,000 initiated members; and

6WHEREAS, For 100 years, Delta Sigma Theta's considerable
7contributions to the community have exemplified its theme, "A
8Sisterhood Called to Serve: Transforming Lives, Impacting
9Communities"; and

10WHEREAS, Notable national programs operated by Delta Sigma
11Theta include Delta Day at the United Nations, Delta Academy for
12girls 11 to 14 years of age, Delta Gems, Empowering Males to
13Build Opportunities for Developing Independence (EMBODI),
14Financial Fortitude and Mary Help of the Sick Mission Hospital,
15which is a maternity hospital in Kenya; and

16WHEREAS, This Commonwealth is home to ten alumnae and ten
17collegiate chapters whose members remain at the forefront of
18Statewide and local legislation through their annual
19participation in Delta Day at the State Capitol; and

20WHEREAS, Delta Sigma Theta also spearheads social leadership
21efforts, such as Statewide voter education and registration
22initiatives; youth and community empowerment workshops; annual
23college and career fairs; scholarship programs; the Adopt-A-
24Highway program; support for women and children in treatment
25facilities and food distributions; and

26WHEREAS, The dynamic and influential members of Delta Sigma
27Theta will unite in celebration of this momentous centennial
28anniversary to pay tribute to those who overcame barriers and
29prepare for the future pursuits of this sisterhood called to
30serve; therefore be it

1RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives recognize and 
2congratulate the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., on the 
3occasion of its 100th anniversary.